Bangladesh restores ‘Except Israel’ wording on passports

Bangladesh has reinstated the phrase “Except Israel” on new passports, reversing a 2021 decision to remove the wording. This directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs aligns travel documents with Bangladesh’s foreign policy and its support for the Palestinian cause. The original phrase, which bars citizens from traveling to Israel, was removed when electronic passports were introduced, though the policy of non-recognition remained. The restoration follows criticism from Islamic and pro-Palestinian groups, particularly intensified after recent events in Gaza, and comes months after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) formed a new government. Officials stated the change is part of a broader review of state symbols by the new administration and reinforces Bangladesh's consistent support for an independent Palestinian state since 1971.